CBD for ADHD: A Natural Treatment to Manage ADHD Symptoms
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, commonly known as ADHD, is one of the most common childhood brain disorders and can continue through adolescence and into adulthood. ADHD can make it harder to control behaviour, so people with ADHD may be more likely to struggle with relationships, poor performance or completion of tasks at school or work, or they may have accidents. While some of the symptoms may seem like normal behaviours for children and adolescents, they are considered abnormal in adults. There are many treatment medications for ADHD, but many have adverse side effects such as sleep problems or loss of appetite.
With the rise in popularity of natural treatments for many ailments and conditions, and CBD being amongst the popular natural medicine options, it raises the question: Could CBD oil be an alternative treatment for ADHD in children and adults?
What Is ADHD?
The first step to understanding the benefits of CBD for ADHD is to understand what ADHD is. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects about 11% of children and 6% of adults in the United States. It's characterised by three core symptoms: inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
ADHD can make it difficult for people to focus on specific tasks or activities. They may have trouble staying organized, managing time well, and completing tasks without making mistakes or losing interest halfway through. Children with ADHD are often described as fidgety or restless; they may also be talkative and disruptive in class.
Because it's a developmental disorder that usually lasts into adulthood if untreated (though symptoms usually improve with age), many ways having ADHD can impact your life at work or school—and even in friendships!
CBD for ADHD
CBD is a non-psychoactive component of the hemp plant. It's been shown to be effective in treating many conditions and disorders. Many individuals have claimed that CBD is highly effective for various physical and mental illnesses. It has proven to reduce anxiety and offset depression, reduce PTSD symptoms, alleviate unmanageable pain, and has even been endorsed as a successful treatment for addiction.
However, there is one condition that many may feel has been under-researched when it comes to CBD treatment, and that is ADHD.
ADHD is a disorder often missed in childhood and can take an extremely long time to diagnose officially.
One of the biggest reasons ADHD is often missed in childhood - especially in women - is because it presents itself in various ways. Not every child exhibits the same hyperactive expression that is commonly interpreted as the primary indication of ADHD.
Girls, especially, are more prone to anxiety and daydreaming and can be much more withdrawn than their male counterparts.
Additionally, every single child is different and may exhibit various symptoms of ADHD. Still, if you are concerned that your child is living with ADHD, this article may be highly informative for your entire family.
How does CBD help?
CBD oil is best known for its ability to lessen pain and inflammation associated with various ailments. However, this plant-based compound can also help manage symptoms unrelated to pain management but mental health conditions such as ADHD.
CBD acts by inhibiting the breakdown of serotonin (5-HT), which plays an important role in helping us feel good or relaxed when we need it most while also preventing anxiety attacks when used regularly before stressful situations occur.
CBD also works by helping to inhibit an enzyme called fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). This enzyme breaks down endocannabinoids like anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), which both play important roles in regulating mood and anxiety levels while also improving focus and concentration.
Reducing anxiety with CBD oil for ADHD
CBD oil is a natural, non-addictive way to reduce anxiety and stress. CBD oil has a calming effect that helps to reduce anxiety, which can be especially beneficial for people with ADHD who experience higher levels of stress and tension than others.
CBD oil doesn't have the same side effects as other medications for ADHD and anxiety. Unlike prescription medications, it's not addictive, and it won't change your mood or behaviour in any unwanted way. It's non-addictive and non-toxic, making it a safe option for anyone looking to treat ADHD symptoms like anxiety by using CBD oil rather than pharmaceutical drugs.
ADHD Treatment Options: CBD Oil for ADHD
When considering your treatment options for ADHD, there are two primary types of medications: stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants such as Ritalin and Adderall are widely prescribed to treat ADHD symptoms; however, these drugs come with a host of unwanted side effects ranging from insomnia to psychosis. Non-stimulant alternatives like Intuniv are also available but can take weeks or months before they take effect—and even then don't always provide adequate relief for patients dealing with severe symptoms like anxiety or depression in conjunction with ADHD.
CBD oil may be an effective treatment if you suffer from ADHD and are looking for an alternative way to relieve your symptoms. Without the risk of potential adverse side effects, you can safely experiment with the various forms of CBD and their doses.
While traditional CBD oil may be the most popular option on the market, you are not limited to oil only. If ingesting oil is not at the top of your list of favourite activities, you can also supplement it with CBD capsules. Add it to your daily supplement routine and begin to manage your symptoms naturally with CBD for ADHD.
Conclusion
CBD has been shown to be a safe and effective treatment for ADHD. But like any substance, it's important to use CBD responsibly. Always talk with your healthcare provider before taking CBD—and make sure you do your research! The exact dose depends on factors like age, body size and weight, health status, and more.
That being said, the fact that CBD is non-intoxicating makes it a great option for kids and adults alike who are looking for a natural way to manage the symptoms of ADHD without the side effects of prescription medications.